Rev. Soc. Bras. Enferm. Ped.2008;8(2):83-9.
Nursing ssistance to family in the neonatal intensive care unit: a literature review
DOI: 10.31508/1676-3793200800011
Abstract
This study aims to identify at the scientific literature the role of nurses in assisting families at the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). The content analysis showed that the nursing assistance to the families in the NICU is designed more to individual needs of the newborn, with little emphasis on the care of the family. Thus, understanding and knowledge needs of family members provide input for the care to be provided to the family. We concluded that the newborn is the focus of care and family needs are still unknown and poorly addressed. This paradigm can be modified from the implementation of holistic care, which promotes changes in the focus of care, to bring the family as part of care center. The care needs of the family should be introduced initially by the institutions, with modifications in its principles and work dynamics. Thus, a multidisciplinary team can develop their practices based on this new paradigm.